Posted on behalf of Arnold Law Firm on November 12, 2024 in Data Breach
Arthur J. Gallagher & Co., one of the largest insurance brokers in the world, has agreed to pay $21 million in a data breach settlement following a significant breach that compromised the personal information of over 3 million individuals. Among the legal team representing the plaintiffs is Attorney Anderson Berry of the Arnold Law Firm, renowned for his extensive experience in handling high-profile data breach cases. This settlement highlights the growing importance of corporate responsibility in safeguarding data security.
In a decisive outcome for those impacted by the breach, the $21 million settlement represents a victory for data privacy advocates. The lawsuit, which was filed in response to a breach that occurred between June and September 2020, has been marked by its scale and complexity. Approximately 3.5 million individuals are part of the class, with each member eligible to claim up to $6,000 in reimbursements for losses caused by the breach. Additionally, those affected can opt for three years of credit monitoring services and a minimum of $1 million in fraud and identity theft insurance.
The settlement was preliminarily approved by U.S. District Judge Mary Rowland, who deemed the terms to be fair and reasonable. A final approval hearing is scheduled for February 2024, where the full details of the settlement will be confirmed. One of the key components of the settlement is Arthur J. Gallagher’s commitment to enhancing their data security protocols moving forward, addressing the vulnerabilities that led to the breach.
The data breach, which occurred over several months in 2020, exposed sensitive information including Social Security numbers, credit card details, and other personally identifiable data belonging to Gallagher’s customers and employees. Allegations in the lawsuit include claims of negligence, failure to implement adequate security measures, and a delayed response in notifying those affected.
According to the plaintiffs, Gallagher did not notify customers of the breach until June 2021, nearly a year after the breach occurred. This delay allowed the compromised data to be potentially misused during that time, increasing the harm to victims. The lawsuit brought against Gallagher consolidated multiple claims of negligence, breach of contract, and violations of state privacy laws.
For many class members, the delay in notification exacerbated the damage, as the stolen information could have been used in fraudulent activities. This case has brought attention to the need for companies to act swiftly and transparently when a breach occurs, emphasizing the importance of strong cybersecurity measures in protecting consumer data.
Attorney Anderson Berry, of the Arnold Law Firm, served as Co-Lead-Counsel in this class action data breach lawsuit. Known for his extensive work in data privacy litigation, Berry’s expertise played a crucial role in securing a favorable outcome for the class members. His work alongside the other attorneys on the case ensured that Arthur J. Gallagher would be held accountable for their failure to protect sensitive information.
Berry’s contribution to the settlement underscores his commitment to advocating for individuals affected by corporate negligence in cybersecurity. His leadership in class action data breach cases has established him as a key figure in the field of data privacy litigation, ensuring that those harmed by data breaches receive fair compensation and protection against future risks.
The Arthur J. Gallagher $21M settlement not only provides relief for the 3.5 million individuals affected but also sends a strong message about corporate accountability. In today’s digital age, companies are entrusted with vast amounts of personal data, and breaches like this demonstrate the need for rigorous security measures.
For businesses, this case serves as a reminder of the legal and financial consequences of failing to protect sensitive information. For consumers, it highlights the importance of being informed about their rights in the event of a data breach and seeking legal counsel to pursue compensation when their privacy is compromised.
If you’ve been impacted by a data breach or are concerned about how your personal information is being handled, reach out to us to understand your rights and explore your options for pursuing compensation. Contact our experienced team today for a free consultation and let us help you protect your privacy and hold corporations accountable.
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